The complaint, filed by an individual from Bhopal, argues that the exclusive provision of halal-certified meat violates rights guaranteed under the Constitution, including equality before law, non-discrimination, freedom of profession, dignity and religious freedom. It asserts that the preferential treatment not only denies dietary choice to non-Muslim travellers but also jeopardises the livelihoods of meat-traders belonging to Hindu Scheduled Caste communities. The NHRC, reviewing the complaint, described the allegations as prima facie human-rights violations and highlighted that a government-run entity such as Indian Railways must respect food-choice rights of all religious faiths in line with the secular spirit of the Constitution.
Indian Railways has responded through the Railway Board, clarifying that there is no official policy mandating halal-certified meals on trains or in its catering services. Officials pointed out that catering follows guidelines from Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, and there is no documented evidence of a halal-only food policy. The Board remarked that in response to a prior Right to Information request, it confirmed there are no records showing approval processes for halal certification, nor explicit consent from passengers regarding such meals.
Advocacy and legal observers note that even if there is no formal policy, the perception or practice of offering only halal meat can lead to a sense of exclusion among communities preferring jhatka meat or vegetarian diets. They argue that equal access to diverse meal options is essential for upholding constitutional values of equality, secularism and dignity. The NHRC’s requirement for an action-taken report places the onus on the Railways to either prove impartiality or to correct the practice.